Abstract [en]

The aim was to study selected research literature to investigate what type of social support to parents with intellectual disabilities and their children that works well. Further studied whether the social support was compatible with social services investigation system that focuses on the child´s needs. The study focused on three themes: the child’s needs, parent skills and factors in the family and environment. The method used was a literature overview that was interpreted using the hermeneutical circle. The results show that supporting the parent supports the child which is agreeable with the system focusing on the child´s needs. Support based on empowerment and advocacy is effective. Support should be given from an early stage and proceed for a long time for best outcome for the child because the support works proactive. Support from the social network around the parent and child can be crucial for the child’s chance to grow up satisfying in its biological family. The results of the study were analyzed with the development of ecological theory and empowerment and advocacy theory. The result is consistent with previous research.